IE Teams with Conservation Group to Support Galapagos Preservation Efforts

May 07, 2014

The International Galapagos Tour Operators Association (IGTOA), a group of conservation-minded ecotourism companies like International Expeditions, will contribute $65,000 to four organizations working on the front lines of Galapagos conservation. IE was a founding member of IGTOA and Emily Harley, a member of our marketing team, serves as vice president on the board.

“What I find most encouraging about the work IGTOA supports is that it covers a wide range of needs,” said Harley. “Through these donations, we are combating invaisive species, supporting research and science, and educating a new generation of locals to become the next generation fighting to preserve this amazing destination.”

WildAid: $27,000 to Improve Biosecurity and Combat Invasive SpeciesFor the third year in a row, IGTOA is helping to fund a massive initiative spearheaded by WildAid to overhaul and strengthen the biosecurity system in the Galapagos. This year, our funds will be used to provide specialized training for biosecurity personnel and to fund a media campaign to educate visitors and Galapagos residents about the impact of invasive species and how to avoid introducing new ones.

The Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF): $20,000 for General Operating SupportOur funds will provide general operating support to the CDF, which operates the Charles Darwin Research Station, to help further its mission to conserve and protect the Galapagos Islands by providing scientific information and technical support to government institutions, including Galapagos National Park.

Ecology Project International (EPI): $10,000 to Help Educate and Inspire the Next Generation of Conservation Leaders in the GalapagosFor the second year in a row, IGTOA is sponsoring 32 Galapagos teens and four teachers to participate in EPI's hands-on conservation training program, which includes giant tortoise monitoring, habitat restoration, and invasive species eradication.

Friends of Galapagos New Zealand: $8,000 to Research and Protect the White-vented Storm PetrelOur funds will make possible an important research project on the White-vented storm petrel. Little is known about this iconic and possibly endemic species and it could be facing extinction.

About IGTOA:International Galapagos Tour Operators Association (IGTOA) is a nonprofit association of travel companies and conservation organizations dedicated to the complete and lasting protection of the Galapagos. IGTOA's mission is to preserve the Galapagos Islands as a unique and priceless world heritage that will provide enjoyment, education, adventure and inspiration to present and future generations of travelers.